The Spool Helix is an innovative overdrive unit for the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) of BMW N54 and early N55 engines. Using an advanced planetary gearbox, the Helix increases the speed of the HPFP, delivering more fuel per cycle. The result is more stable rail pressure and significantly higher fuel capacity at high power outputs.
At higher tuning levels, N54/early N55 engines often reach the limits of the standard HPFP because the injectors consume fuel faster than the pump can deliver it. The Helix solves this problem by making the pump spin faster, without the complexity of additional port injection or secondary fuel systems.
After nearly a year of intensive testing, Spool Performance has confirmed that overriding the HPFP does not negatively impact the durability of critical internal components. Wear on components like the squash plate, springs, and pistons was minimal, and oil analyses revealed negligible metal particles.
Advantages
• Increases HPFP RPM for more fuel capacity
• Solution without additional injection systems
• Supports very high power outputs on E85
• Proven reliability after extensive testing
• No additional wear on critical HPFP components
• Ideal for high-power N54 & early N55 builds
• Developed by Spool Performance
Technical specifications
• Type: HPFP overdrive unit (planetary gearbox)
• Application: BMW N54 & early N55
• Function: Increases pump displacement per cycle
• Adjustment: Software adjustment required
• Fuel: Petrol, E60, E85
Helix
• Up to 600 whp on full E85
• 750+ whp on E60 blends
Helix Xtreme
• Up to 750 whp on full E85
• 850+ whp on E60 or gasoline blends
(Helix Xtreme is in final stages of durability testing.)
Compatibility
• BMW 135i / 1M E8x
• BMW 335i E9x
• BMW X1 E84 35i
• BMW Z4 E89 35i
Contents
• Spool Helix HPFP Overdrive Unit
• Billet vacuum cover mounting plate
• Support bracket
• Complete mounting hardware
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is tuning required after installation?
Yes, software modifications are necessary. Spool Performance works with all major tuners and can support calibration.
2. Is this safe for the HPFP?
Yes, extensive testing shows that overdriving does not cause additional wear on critical components.
3. Do I need port injection with the Helix?
No, the Helix expands the capacity of the existing HPFP and often eliminates the need for additional injection systems.